By 1969, production of the venerable W111 'finback' sedans was ending, having been superseded by the new W108/109 chassis models. A decision was made, however, to continue producing the hand-built coupes on the W111 chassis fitted with a 3.5-liter V-8 engine to keep pace with competitors in the U.S. luxury market. The new engine utilized a cast-iron block, cross-flow wedge cylinder heads with rocker-operated valves, transistorized ignition, and electronic fuel injection. The final product was fast, fun, and truly elegant - a perfect combination.

Production of the 280 SE 3.5 coupe began in August 1969 and continued to July 1971. Total production was 3,270 examples, with just 818 designated for the U.S. Due to their limited production, these were not only some of the fastest and most interesting Mercedes-Benzes of their era, but also some of the rarest and most expensive.

The example offered here was completed on 21 July 1970. When ordered, it was desirably optioned with the sliding roof, automatic transmission, Behr air conditioning, English instrumentation, Becker Europa radio, and heat-insulated glass. After a first repaint in the 1990s by marque specialists Hatch and Sons, it was given a full cosmetic restoration in 2015. The elegant DB350 Blue paint and Saddle leather interior are truly exceptional. The seats, Wilton carpets, burl dashboard, interior panels, weather stripping, lights, and chrome were returned to factory-new condition. The car has been recently serviced, including a tune-up, new Bilstein suspension, tires, and brakes, and is fully ready to be enjoyed.

Whether its next owner will be a weekend driver fan of the marque or a collector looking for a worthy addition to a serious collection, this car deserves the consideration of any vintage Mercedes-Benz enthusiast.